Did you know Bummis released a new and improved version of their AIO cloth diaper? No? At the end of the November, Bummis released the Pure making a series of significant changes to their already pretty awesome all in one cloth diaper. Check out my review of the previous version here.

Disclosure: Kerri from Cozybums dropped one of these off with me to review at no cost. This post will contain affiliate links. I earn commission from these links.

What’s the deal with the Bummis Pure?

To be completely honest, I skimmed over the release of the Bummis PURE AIO cloth diaper. I already own the Bummis AIO, and my favourite thing in the world right now is prefold diapers and covers (sometimes I even use flats). So, another all in one cloth diaper from a company already making an all in one cloth diaper didn’t seem important to me. #firstmistake

But, it is important. The Bummis Pure is one of the MOST AFFORDABLE all in one cloth diapers MADE IN CANADA.

Give Bummis a chance! I know this brand isn’t as sexy as other cloth diaper brands, but these guys make diapers that last and diapers that hold up to heavy wetters and fit toddlers. And they do it in Canada.

Bummis Pure Design

It’s not a cloth diaper review without a little about of design chat. The Bummis Pure is an all in one cloth diaper. If you’re not familiar with this term I’ve been throwing around for the last 5 or so paragraphs, it means no fuss, no stuffing, no putting things together. Everything you need is contained in the diaper. It’ has an attachable insert that doesn’t remove, and doesn’t go anywhere when washing. You just lay all flat and go. Put it on your child and go. When it’s soiled, in the wash bag, and put a different diaper on the bum.

On the exterior of the diaper is a classic Bummis shape fitting from 10-38lbs. I say that because it looks near identical to the previous Bummis AIO. Double waist snaps, 2×4 rise snap and a few other adjustments. If you want me to do a more detailed break down of the differences, leave a comment, and I’ll make it happen. Maybe I’ll even go live on Facebook!

On the inside of the Bummis Pure is where the magic happens. This diaper has been completely overhauled on the interior as it now features a wicking jersey inner (in BRIGHT and BOLD colours). Further, a large bamboo cotton blend tongue is sewn to the front and can be tucked inside a pocket in the central part of the diaper. If you turn the pocket inside out, three layers of a cotton terry material are sewn to the pocket providing additional absorbency.

A full stash of Bummis PURE (24 changes) would cost you $670 Canadian. This would last until potty training, a solid 2.5 years. Disposables run around $50 CDN a month, if you’re lucky. That toals $1500 for a year. Yes, there are cheaper ways to cloth diaper, but this is easy. The Bummis Pure is an easy cloth diaper. It’s okay to spend money on easy things. You dont have to be a super mom with your pile of microfibre inserts stuffing diapers for an hour.

Just Pure & Simple – Worth Owning

There’s probably a really good reason why Bummis opted to name this diaper the Pure. I’m going to assume it is simple, perfect, flawless. This chunky all in one cloth diaper is worth trying.

Absorbency Worth Owning: This diaper is one of the most absorbent daytime AIO cloth diaper on the market. Hands down. It’s not nearly as absorbent as my older models (maybe because it has only been washed six times), but it is a top contender against others holding a solid 9-10oz. I don’t own anything more absorbentwithout going to something designed for nights.

If you think Smart Bottoms, Best Bottoms or Blueberry is absorbent, you haven’t tried a Bummis cloth diaper.

I boost this with a small booster for nights, and we are set. I can’t boost any other AIO and wake up to a dry bed. The bed is always wet. Note: she is a moderate night time wetter needing only 20 oz.

Elastics Worth Stretching: Elastics on Bummis Pure are just perfect. I’m not even sure how to explain to you their awesome powers, but they have such bounce, and stretch, and give just the right fit to ensure nothing escapes from the diaper. #BummisFTW

If you own a previous Bummis AIO, the elastics on the Pure are longer in that they start higher on the legs and cover a bigger width on the back.

Wicking Jersey Worthy of Pee & Poop: I believe wicking jersey is the way of the future for cloth diapers, and Canadian diaper manufacturers have jumped on that bandwagon. Not only is wicking jersey stay dry, but its amazing for poop clean up. Fleece is #soyesterday. Wicking Jersey does a fantastic job. I’ve only owned this diaper a couple of weeks; I know wicking jersey stands the test of time (whereas fleece tends to get pilly, gross, and not so lovely).

Pockets Worth Stuffing: My favourite kind of AIO is one with a pocket because I want options and Bummis Pure gives me these options:

Pocket for even more absorbency: Stuff a booster in there and this diaper will tackle any heavy daytime wetter.

Pocket for stay dry: Tuck that cotton tongue into the diaper and its now stay dry for even the most sensitive of babies.

Pocket for easy poop clean up: Nobody likes scraping poop off a million layers, so a pocket lets you hide all the excess for easy cleanup. I love it.

Skip the Pocket: If pockets aren’t for you, lay that tongue on top and baby/toddler can skip any stay dry feeling – this might be helpful for the potty training of the bunch. (And if you are lazy on laundry day).

Worthy until Potty Training: We all get worried diapers won’t last until potty training. I know I am because my youngest is 21 pounds and primarily on the same rise settings as my oldest. They do slim out. At 37lbs and 38″, my toddler has lots of room to grow this diaper. He fits this better than a size Large Bummis Potty Pant. Notice no toddler photos today; he’d rather die than wear a diaper these days (unless he has to poop).

I also love how easy it is to get on. This is a diaper I rarely struggle with. I did struggle the first time (as evident in this video below) because I didn’t have the snaps right and chunky thighs got all in the way, but guys, my husband always got it right (and I made him try this thing out!)

Couple Not-so-Awesome Things

I don’t hate diapers. I get frustrated with some diapers, and I can only think of one example and it’s not the Bummis Pure.

Couple of things I don’t like…

Double Rise Snaps because a triple rise snap prevents inevitable diaper bulge on a wider diaper like this. This is purely cosmetic.

Theres never a bulge after a cloth diaper blogger has meticulously inspected the diaper before snapping a photo. Rise snaps up, snaps adjusted. But give it an hour, it’ll all fall apart.

It is still a little bulky. The bulk isn’t as evident in the tush, but more so in the front of the diaper. I find the Bummis Pure holds more bulk in the crotch which can be frustrating for some parents.Newsflash: If you want absorbency that will last, it’ll be bulky. And that’s life. The “bulk” of this diaper doesn’t bother me or my children. I’ve seen fluffier microfibre bums, so this doesn’t break me on whether this is the perfect diaper or not.

Buy It?

Definitely. At only $27.95 AND made in Canada, this cloth diaper is an amazing deal for anyone looking for an easy, ABSORBENT, non-complicated, affordable all in one cloth diaper. And you can buy it at my favourite cloth diaper retailer – CozyBums Diapers. It’s not the trimmest of fitting diapers, but I will continue to use it for nights, naps, and long trips because I like not worrying about leaks. Probably even use it aroudn the house because its just that cute.

I like to travel. If I could, I would drop everything and just explore. However, I don’t have money, and I have two kids. #maybeoneday. Our last great vacation was a trip to Prince Rupert as a family. It was fantastic. However, my husband is out of personal days and vacation time, so we’re now limited to shorter excursions like a stay-cation (a vacation in your city).

This staycation had a purpose: to escape the clutter overtaking my house. Ever since we got in our big fat heads to downsize and move into something a little smaller, I’ve been a whirlwind trying to minimize our belongings. That process results in a lot of clutter, and chaos and stress. I needed to escape. And while I’m a cloth diaper addict, I also needed a break from laundry, and cloth diapers because I’m not perfect. #itsnotallornothing. So, I packed up my Charlie Banana diapers and disposable inserts, and we hit up a local hotel for a well-deserved break.

Disclosure: Charlie Banana sent me some product to try, and I’m writing to you about it with a truthful and honest perspective. This post might contain affiliate links because that’s one way bloggers can earn money from the hard work we spend working on these posts.

I’ll admit, I love hotel beds. There’s something about the fluffy white duvet and the abundance of pillows that makes me giddy with excitement. Having stayed in my fair share of okay-hotels, this was a top priority for me and why I choose this Prince George hotel.

Diapering on Vacation

I might be escaping the chaos at home, but I’m still stuck with two kids in diapers. My youngest is for sure in diapers, but my oldest is potty trained when naked (you know that struggle?). So, I packed up Charlie Banana disposable inserts, just the shell of the Charlie Banana Cloth Diaper, Swim Diapers, and a pair of training pants.

There is zero shame in using Charlie Banana disposable inserts (or disposable diapers) when travelling and on vacation. It’s okay to enjoy the moment and not feel stressed about hauling out 10lbs of wet diapers or trying to figure out a laundry situation. Enjoying the moment is thenumber one reasonI turn to Charlie Banana for my diapering needs.

Checking in with Charlie Banana Disposables

You can’t just pack disposable inserts, you also need to pair them with a cover. Naturally, Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts work best with the one size Charlie Banana Diaper. Their diapering system is a simple pocket made with a microfleece liner good for babies 6-35lbs.

The diaper is adjusted using adjustable elastics and buckle on the inside of the pocket. Lettering on the elastic outlines which size to adjust to your baby. This gives a perfect soft fit for baby. I never had any problems with tight elastics on the thighs or a leaky bum!

Normally, you would use one of their inserts inside the diaper, and then wash when soiled. But, on holidays, or even at home, or while running errands, using the Charlie Banana Diaper changes when using disposable inserts.

The Charlie Banana disposable insert just goes on top of the fleece and up against baby’s skin. When wet change, and let the cover dry out. It’s good to have a couple of covers on hand, and easily use just three over the course of 24 hours. If it’s poopy tuck it up in a wash bag for when you get home. If it’s going to be a while before I get home, I’ll do a little hand wash in the sink and let dry.

Poolside with the Charlie Banana Swim Diaper

A vacation isn’t a vacation without a little water action. I choose the hotel in town not only based on their pillows, but also off their water attraction. A pool PLUS slide was just what we needed to unwind and enjoy the evening.

While disposable diapers are “easiest” while travelling, a swim diaper si still convenient while on vacation. Not only is a Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper convenient, but it’s sure to keep a mess better than disposable swim diaper. It’s tough elastics, and perfect fit help keep any unfortunate accidents out of the pool and let you keep enjoying some splash time.

Managing a swim diaper on vacation is simple. If a poop happens to toss it in the toilet and wrap it up for washing at home. I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty, so I would give it a good swish and swirl in the toilet and then hand wash it up in the sink before drying it.

While a poopy swim diaper is a rare scenario for me, I wouldn’t go on vacation with just one. No, you would probably need multiples. Good thing the Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper is super affordable around $10 a piece. Because if you bring just one, then you will have a poop and you won’t be able to swim again.

It’s challenging taking two kids out for dinner, let alone a potty curious toddler, but when there are two adults on board the task is easier. It wasn’t perfect, and we had an accident requiring a diaper change, but that’s the learning game. Lucky for us the Charlie Banana Training Pant helps keep some of the mess contained and dignity intact.

How do you vacation with diapers and potty learning children?

I love things that are versatile and have not one, but many more different types of uses. The Charlie Banana Training Pants are such a creation. This multi-purpose pull on underpants not only act as a Training Pant but also a swimming pant. And why not? The primary intention of swimming is to keep poop out of the pool. But if you want a swim diaper with snaps and such check out the Charlie Banana Swimming Diaper too.

Disclosure: as always, I touch base and let you know when I receive a product at no cost. This happens in the blogging world more often than people care to admit. This post is written with the free product but always contains my honest and truthful sentiments.

Charlie Banana Extraordinary Training Pants

The Extraordinary Training pants are a pull on pant with a drawstring elastic. This gives them that feels like underwear experience with a customizable waist for even the skinniest of training toddlers.

Structurally, the Charlie Banana training pant is composed of a waterproof polyester exterior with an organic cotton inner. The entire inner of the diaper is organic cotton, and an extra absorbent strip lays in the centre made of 88% biconstituent fibre and 12% polyester for additional absorbency (to catch those accidents).

Extraordinary Training Pants in Action

This Large size pair of Charlie Banana Training Pants is a little smallfor my big guy who weighs in at a chunky 37lbs and a size 3T. Regardless, they did fit, and they were easy to pull on and off. However, as I’ve mentioned before in my reviews of potty training pants, I prefer a bigger size for easier use. Teaching little hands to pull a diaper on and off can be a struggle and if it’s just easier with a bigger size.

Sizing: I’m going to say the sizing is right on the money with the Charlie Banana Extraordinary training pants and go by the chart listed on their website to get the best fit for your child.

Will it hold an entire pee? No. Honestly, there are very few training pants that do because training pants aren’t diapers. They are underwear to help your little person use the potty and maybe keep embarrassing accidents at bay.

Lucky for you, the Charlie Banana training pant’s polyester exterior is waterproof. A tight fit ensures there is little to no wicking or leaking from these training pants. Unlike some brands which have soft fabric leg elastics, this ensures that the couch stays a little dryer.

What about poops? Pooping toddlers are the one reason I don’t like a pull on training pant and prefer options with snaps. If you have a toddler, you know the stress of toilet pooping. We did poop in this at a birthday party, and it wasn’t pretty. In the poops defence, I can’t imagine any diaper that would have kept that explosion in. (He’d be holding it for several days). If your kid only poops in underwear consider the Extraordinary Training Pant with snaps. The extra couple of dollars is worth not dragging poop down legs! #askmehowIknow #Idothisforaliving

Recommendation

It might not be the most absorbent training pant on the market, but the adjustable waist and low price point make it a reasonable and affordable option. If you are looking for a little extra protection during the potty learning experience and you want to spend a little less than some of the other options, consider Charlie Banana.

I genuinely believe every cloth diaper family should have a case of disposable inserts on hand for mental health days. I never used disposable inserts before I had two kids, but now that I have two, I use them all the time. And not just on vacation or staycation, but when I need a break, and I just don’t want to get the laundry downstairs.

Because this mom thing is hard.

Many months ago now, I reviewed two big-name disposable inserts in a comparison post. However, as a connoisseur (definitely not the right use of that word) of cloth diapers, I knew other disposable diaper options existed and connected with Charlie Banana for the sake of science.

Disclosure: with that said, I openly share with you that Charlie Banana sent over some products for a review. I always provide my honest opinion, and I’m not persuaded by free product, swag or money to right good things. Affiliate links will be present in this article because truthfully,t hat’s how I keep the addiction alive.

Charlie Banana Disposable Insert

The Charlie Banana Disposable Insert is truly just another disposable insert. In hand, it most closely resembles Flip disposable inserts, but it’s smaller and slightly different.

Chlorin, plastic, paraben, dye and perfume free the Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts are everything you want in a ‘crunchy lifestyle’ disposable product. To top it off the inserts are biodegradable but not flushable. DO NOT FLUSH. They are much too big. Made of 73% wood Pul and 27% SAP (and a rayon lining) they do a mighty good job at absorbing liquids from your baby.

Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts do not have a waterproof backing (compared to the GroVia Biosoaker). This means if you use the Charlie Banana pocket diaper with them the fleece may get wet from the insert. This also means you can stack them to meet your child’s absorbency needs.

Absorbency

Without taking my kitchen instruments to the disposable insert, Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts hold up to the day to day life of my children. I only once had a leaky morning. But 4/5 mornings we woke up dry when using a single Charlie Banana Disposable Insert. AWESOME.

They don’t really puff up or get heavy the same way some of the other disposable diapering products do, and I felt tricked by my dry mornings, dry naps, and dry everything. I’ll admit I questioned if my children were hydrated before thinking these inserts were awesome.

It turns out the Charlie Banana Disposable Insert is just awesome.

Adaptability

Disposable inserts work best with the brand they are meant to be used in; meaning Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts are best suited to be used with the Charlie Banana Diaper.

Despite this claim, I would disagree. The fleece lining on the Charlie Banana Diaper (because it is a one size pocket diaper) is not ideal for swapping out inserts. Often I need to wait and dry between using the same diaper again, and that’s not a strategy I believe to be very efficient when cloth diapering.

Therefore, I prefer using my Charle Banana Disposable Inserts with a true cover diaper. Anything worked. I never had problems using it with other diaper brands.

This would be better if Charlie Banana had a wipeable cover to use with this product.

Affordability

It’s hard to track down Charlie Banana products in Canada! But you can find the disposable inserts at Best Buy Baby for $15.99 CDN (same price as on the USD pricing). That makes them about 50 cents per insert.

Seems expensive, but its similar to the Flip, and on par with high-end disposable diapers (For reference: a pack of size four 7th Generation will cost you about 43 cents per diaper).

Recommendation?

Yes, please! I like Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts. They are smaller/shorter than the Flip which makes them a better size for my youngest child, and they do work on my toddler.

I have zero complaints about Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts. My favourite thing is that this diaper is more like a wet towel when saturated and less like a heavy gel. If I could easily acquire Charlie Banana Disposable Inserts in Canada, I would continue to stock these for my emergency, mommy mental health days and all future vacations. I also use disposable inserts at bedtime when I can’t find all the pieces to make an overnight diaper work.

Are you excited? I’m excited about the Elemental Joy cloth diaper release!

Whenever something new is released in the land of cloth diapers, it’s an exciting day for addicts and connoisseurs alike. New brands and new styles are intriguing but lately, they’ve come with a bit of a price tag. Whether its the latest Best Bottom AIO or perhaps the newly fitted diaper from Omaiki, these cloth diapers just aren’t cheap. They come with a hefty price tag which not everyone can afford. So, with great grandeur and excitment, I bring to you a quick review of the Elemental Joy cloth diaper from Cotton Babies.

I’ll admit, I’ve only had this three days, so this is more of a first impressions post than anything. Check back in a month, and I’ll compare it to the bumGenius 5.0 and give you a month in the life of the Elemental Joy.

Disclosure: Alright guys, CozyBums and I are working together on changing the conversation around cheap diapers because you totally can shop at CozyBums on a budget (under $300CDN?). This diaper was given me to experiment with and share with you but my opinions are always honest. Also, I use affiliate links to an earn an income when I convince you to buy something. 😉

What’s the Deal?

Cotton Babies is a brand (and store) in the United States. They already produce diapers such as the Flip, Hempbabies, Econobaby and the bumGenius line up (including the Elemental, Freetime, Newborn, 5.0). Owned and operated by Jenn Labit, Jenn seeks to be better and do better in the world. As a courageous entrepreneur, it’s not surprising to see this release of an affordable USA MANUFACTURED cloth diaper.

Elemental Joy is made in the USA with both imported and domestic material. It meets CPSIA guidelines. It’s a pocket diaper with a flat insert, but we’ll go into that later. The insert is made in Pakistan.

Where are you going to get it? At CozyBums of course. CozyBums Diapers is my go-to choice for cloth diapers in Canada. Not only is it a short 5-minute drive from my house, but Kerri is absolutely the sweetest and I love supporting small and determined businesses.

DETAILS, Details, details.

The Elemental Joy is a budget-friendly cloth diaper. Ringing in at under $10 in the United States, the conversion, shipping, and more doesn’t add up as nicely at Canadian Retailers. CozyBums has it currently listed for $13.20 or $11.95 for the diaper and $1.95 for the insert. That’s still one of the cheapest diapers in store.

But what about that diaper? Surprisingly it’s a pocket diaper. With a polyester microsuede (thats my best approximation) pocket and a laminated polyester exterior, the diaper is just like any other pocket diaper. It features an opening in the back, and a similar cut to the 5.0 (but its not identical).

A 3×3 snap on the front offers an adjustable size from 8-35lbs, and a double snap waist gives a close snug fit all around.

Along with the Elemental Joy Pocket cloth diaper is an insert. Unlike the traditional microfibre inserts seen with 75% of other pocket cloth diapers, the Elemental Joy has a flat cloth diaper insert. In hand this looks and feels like the osocozy flat diaper or the imagine flat diaper. A thicker weave 100% flat 27×27 can be folded up and put inside for a natural fibre solution! This is made in Pakistan.

What’s to Love

Big GENEROUS fit! This diaper fits big but perfect. It has a higher rise in the back, and more room all over. I didn’t find it bulky because flat diapers don’t have much fluff to them, but it does cover more of the body. This could be a good or bad thing depending on you. To me, that screams awesome. I don’t really care how big the diaper is, I just want poop and pee to stay in. #lifegoalsSee the trick is to make sure the leg elastic of the diaper goes in the crease. When you put the diaper on you want to fold it like a sandwich to fit there. This gives the best fit possible like my baby girl.

Honest, all diapers look like this now at 35 plus pounds. He has the same snaps as the Elemental but more coverage all over.

Natural Fibre Inserts: If you’re reading this because you want to know whether to buy cheap overseas diapers with microfibre or take the plunge on the Elemental Joy, this is the reason why.

Natural Fibre Inserts are worth their weight in gold, and better yet this flat is cloth diapering made easy. It’s not going to hold any stinks like microfibre, it’s not prone to compression leaks, it won’t shed plastics into our waterways when washed, it doesn’t feel terrible on your hands, and it’s just right for the average kid.

Absorbency: It’s a 27×27″ square piece of fabric with a similar weight and feel of other like products. It’s going to be about average for absorbency. If you kid out pees this he’s on the heavy wetting side of life. But if you’re changing every two hours during the day no problem. Need a boost, add a second or booster in a hemp/cotton/bamboo blend for a trim solution.

Better than a FST: I’m no fan of a FST but I am a fan of this because it got more structure, absorbency and life in it.

Don’t’ stress about folding: Fold it in half, in half, and then in thirds. DONE.

Shake the stress of folding flats away because the extra time it might take to fold a flat diaper is not even comparable to the time some families spend frustrated with microfibre.

Price Point: It’s not awesome considering the Canadian conversion, but it is awesome for a pocket cloth diaper in Canada MADE IN THE UNITED STATES.

Made in the United States: <— seriously. This might not matter to you, but if it does, this is big for a diaper under $15.

It Can’t be PERFECT

Or can it? The Elemental Joy isn’t perfect, but I’m wary of being too heavy on my critique because it is a low-cost cloth diaper and I’ve only owned it a couple of days. At under $9 in the United States and a mere $13.50 Canadian, there will be a few “it could be better” moments. Here they are:

Snaps: The snaps just aren’t the same as my other diapers. I don’t have any cheap overseas diapers to compare them to, but compared to the 5.0 and the Flip, and almost everything else I own there’s just something about those snaps that’s 10 cents cheaper. Even my husband agreed with me as we snapped and unsnapped for a few minutes last night.

Laminated Polyester: The exterior waterproof barrier on this diaper is not the same grade as other diapers in higher brackets. It just isn’t. It feels thin, but that doesn’t mean it’s not durable. Mother-ease cloth diapers are thin but durable. Only time will tell.

It is SO BIG. Baby Girl got on her high waist pants when wearing this diaper. It just sits up so high, especially when you think about the Best Bottom low rise cut. I don’t have a problem with it, it’s similar to the Flip in that regards, and clothes still fit. I’m wary of tiny thigh children just because so if you have a tiny thigh child and this diaper works for you let me know. I know tons of parents with skinny legs love the 5.0 and the Flip, and some don’t.

I’m also not sold on this being the most effectivelow-cost cloth diaper because it is a pocket.

If you cloth diaper you know the most affordable way is to purchase 8 cloth diaper covers and 24 inserts. You reuse the same cover until soiled or stinky and swap out the insert.

You could still do this with the Elemental Joy, and honestly, that’s how I’ll use it because, with 2 in diapers, I would rather not stuff diapers all day. Good thing CozyBums sells them in separates, load up on the inserts and buy only 8 pockets for a surprisingly affordable $142 Canadian! (plus tax and stuff)

Stop, FASTER, and Go.

Available in three prints and three colours, the Elemental Joy is definitely the diaper of the year. This cloth diaper will be making waves into 2018 and changing how we can cloth diaper.

Do I think there are better cloth diapers? Yes.

The 5.0 isbn far superior in quality, but its almost double the price.

Do I think this is a good choice for cloth diapering on a budget? YES.

Got a question? Drop me a comment below and let me know what you think of the Elemental Joy.

It’s been a while since I’ve done a cloth diaper review, and even longer since I jumped into a swim cloth diaper. I’m not sure if you’ve ever taken young kids swimming, but it’s the most stressful thing I have ever done. The summer was easy, hit up the splash pad, or put on a swimsuit in the backyard with the sprinkler. However, it’s now winter, and those options for water play are less than ideal.

Disclosure: Charlie Banana sent me a swim diaper and a few other products to write and review on. This post is my honest and truthful opinion. This post might also contain affiliate links which I earn a commission from with the purchase.

Swimming with Charlie Banana

The only possible way we were going to review the Charlie Banana Extraordinary swim diaper was either in the bathtub or if my husband was home to help me. Thankfully, we decided to take a little staycation to escape the mess and checked into a local hotel with a wicked awesome water slide.

Charlie Banana is a cloth diaper brand headquartered in Hong Kong. They make budget-friendly diapering products both in the USA and abroad.

Two different styles of swim diaper are available from Charlie Banana. The first is the Extraordinary with a layer of organic cotton on the inside, and the second is the Reusable with a Tencel layer on the inside. Both diapers seem to offer the same cut and style, with a variety of sized options. The Ruesable Swim Diaper offers an adjustable waist ideal for skinny babies and without snaps. It’s my understanding this is what I have for potty training and more than that specific model later!

Design of the Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper

We have the Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper with the beautiful layer of Tencel on the inside. Tencel is a polyester/lyocell blend that is absorbent, restrict bacterial growth, and made of the green celluloid material.

The Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper comes in 4 different sizes from Small to X-Large. We have a Large which is rated from 21-27lbs. My child is about 20lbs, but she has the thighs of a larger child.

There are double side snaps on along the waist of the diaper, and a wide soft elastic that runs along the back and legs of the diaper giving a cushy closed fit.

At the Pool with Charlie Banana Swim Diapers

As a cloth diaper blogger, there are few things that just happen. First, if you haven’t taken pictures of a product yet, and decide to let your child wear the diaper right away, they will poop. Second, if you need to review a swim diaper, they will not poop.

Swim Diapers have one goal in life: to contain the poop from escaping the pool! The most significant questions parents have is about liquid breastfed poop because the more substantial stuff it’s harder to escape.

In general, I’m inclined to believe a cloth swim diaper, including this Charlie Banana Reusable Swim Diaper, is up to the task. Elastics and perfect sizing options help give the best possible fit.

Taking photos at a hotel pool after dinner is terrible lighting. My apologies. It is super cute on her chunky.

On Little Miss

The fit on Little Miss was just right. She falls into the lower spectrum of the weight for the cloth diaper, but her thick thighs mean it was just right for her body. I felt the overall fit was snug and secure. And she looked super cute.

It was also really easy to put on. Because this is a sized diaper, there is no fussing with rise snaps. A SIZED DIAPER is a GREAT CHOICE for not cloth diapering parents because you just pull the diaper on and go. And with the hip snaps like on the Charlie Banana reusable swim diaper, you can do precisely that pull on and off like underwear making it super easy to use. I prefer hip snaps because a swim diaper has ONE JOB and that is to catch poop. Should the unthinkable happen, snaps trump having to slide a poopy diaper down someone’s leg.

Disclaimer: typically I’m a fan of one size swim diapers because of the buy it once, buy it forever idea. Which is why I love swim diapers like Nuggles and Omaiki; however, the fit and ease of the Charlie Banana reusable swim diaper as a sized diaper has me sold to try other sized options.

I don’t have any complaints about the Charlie Banana Reusable swim diaper and would recommend it for anyone looking for an easy to use budget friendly swim diaper for the pool or water park.

This diaper does come in a vairety of sizing options available on the website. Little Miss fits the size and weight class she’s in and depending on the chunk of your kid you may feel you need to up or down a size to get a nice tight fit to prevet swimming accidents.

However, at the super affordable price, this swim diaper would meet your needs for the size your baby is swimming at now.

It was just simple to use. And that’s a winning point. As a blogger who owns many swim diapers, I’m thinking I’d pack this next time because I know that even dad could use it without any complicated instructions like making sure the rise snaps are snapped. And if you don’t know what rise snaps are, then this the diaper for you and the pool.

Where can you buy it?

You can buy a Charlie Banana Swim Diaper directly from Charlie Banana, or from any of these affiliate retailers below.

Today I want to talk about my obsession with receiving blankets. I’ve talked about receiving blankets and cloth diapering before but never dedicated an entire post to the topic. Receiving blankets continue to be one of my most frequently googled terms that bring users to my site. #funfact.

Hey Guys, so that you know this post does contain affiliate links. Purchases made at those links may result in me receiving a commission. The FTC wants you to know to this, and that’s okay because I’m just another mom trying to hustle her life on the internet.

What’s the Deal with Receiving Blankets?

Receiving blankets is one of the cheapest, most affordable, absorbent material you could use for cloth diapering and these two reasons, plus more is why I am smitten about Receiving Blankets. Microfibre might be cheap, but it is not awesome, I’d rather touch a spider than touch microfibre. Flour Sack Towels are also cheap, but find out why I don’t like those here.

Cheap & Affordable.

Reliable Absorbency.

Simple, Straightforward, No stink washing.

Easy to Use.

Multipurpose

Why not buy new?

New receiving blankets are not affordable. Seriously. A new package will cost you 15+ dollars, and work out to like $8/each. At that price, you might as well buy a SmartFold or GroVia Prefold diaper or a HumBird Flat. [okay, those are not fair comparisons but hey]

Buying them used is super easy, get onto your local buy and sell (BST) group and look. Usually, parents sell them for $1-2 a piece. You can also find them at second-hand shops for similar prices. For $1-2 a piece, you can barely buy microfibre for that cost.

When you buy them used, you’re also reusing them a product and potential diverting them from our waste streams. From an environmental stance, this is a win for me because sometimes things need a second chance in life before they hit the can.

Always Absorbent & More

After a time, microfibre begins to wear out because as a plastic based product it sheds while being washed. Natural fibres begin to disintegrate too (that’s why you get holey products), but their life expectancy seems to be much longer and complaints of reduced absorbency much fewer.

Not only are we talking time, but a large Carters receiving blanket will hold upwards o 12-14 oz of absorbency. That’s like two microfibre pads and fewer COMPRESSION LEAKS. (That’s what happens when something heavy sits on a wet spongey absorbency). I also believe this is significantly trimmer, even when padfolded because it’s less fluffy.

Easy Washing

If you’re stressed out about washing cloth diapers, flat cloth diapers are the answer for you. This love of receiving blankets also applies to any flat cloth diaper. Because it’s just one layer of material, there’s nothing complicated about washing, and it’s less likely to hold the stink because of their’s no layers for stinky things to get trapped in.

That’s why we use them for the Flats and Handwashing challenge because it’s just easy. My receiving blankets have yet to stink, unlike my fitted diapers, my AIO, or any of my other absorbent materials.

Fold & Go

You’re probably thinking but now Bailey, I have to fold diapers. Well, yea, but it takes like less than thirty seconds. I find folding receiving blankets super straightforward, and no different than folding any other basket of laundry. I lay mine on top of pockets in a padfold because in my opinion stuffing a diaper takes too much time.

Multipurpose

Have you ever been somewhere and thought fudge I should have brought XYorZ? Well, there’s a good chance a Receiving blanket can solve those problems. Clean up a big mess, act as impromptu nursing cover, maybe a little blanket to sit on? Or a sunshade for the stroller? A receiving blanket in your bag offers a plethora of options should you need it for something else.

A few other things I like about receiving blankets – The pretty colours they come in. The connect with snappis and Boingo’s without a problem.

I exclusively cloth diaper my toddler with recieving blankets. Sometimes we use a GroVia Size 3 prefold, but really there isn’t anything out there I like any better. He’s a big kid, and he’s outsized my traditional sized prefolds, so these are quick and affordable. Creating this stash cost me $15. I would pay that for 1.5 prefold cloth diapers his size. My littles

Some things I don’t’ like – how big they can be for smaller babies. I’m not supporting a locally owned or manufactured product.

Do you ever look at a diaper and scratch your head? What is going on here? How is this supposed to work? That’s what I thought when I looked at the Flip Diapers Potty Training Kit. This Cotton Babies product is its unique type of training pant.

You could compare it to a GroVia MyChoice, or the Best Bottom Training Pant, but it is neither of these. Let’s take a look. I purchased this training pant when I retailer opted to clean out her stock, and after a few recommendations online.

Flip Potty Training Kit

The Flip Diapers Potty Training Kit composed of two parts: Flip Training Pant & Organic Cotton Pads (x3). Some retailers sell the Training Pant separate, but for the most part, this training system is sold as a kit.

This is a one size training pant. Yes, you read that right. This is the other one size option. Suggested sizing is 18months to 4T or 20-50lbs. To get a one-size variation, the Flip Training Pant has two sets of rising snaps along with adjustable waist snaps. Stretchy snap waist tabs provide a pull-up and down feature to this training pant.

The Flip Training Pant looks and feels similar to the Flip Diaper. Perhaps, it’s just a little larger. Inside, you’ll find flaps and hook & loop with a wipeable exterior.

The Flip Potty Training Kit is intended to be a multi-use training pant that you can swap out soiled inserts. This offers a total of three changes per package.

Each Flip Potty Training Kit comes with a total of 3 organic cotton inserts. These inserts provide a series of hook&loop folds to adjust the size of the insert based on the scale of the diaper you need. Tuck these into the flaps and attach to the hook and loop inside the diaper shell.

What I Love about the Flip Training Pant

If you’re like me and in potty training limbo, you might love how the Flip Training Pant is primarily a pull on diaper. It’s less like underwear, and more like a diaper, but it’s a great transition tool for those who might be looking for something you can pull on and off. To be completely honest, I would use the shell with my favourite prefold and skip the diaper tantrum.

Absorbency: Flip organic cotton is just amazing, and the organic inserts in the Flip Training Pant hold up to the Flip reputation. I’m thoroughly impressed.

Waterproof: If you need to leave the house, or rock a car ride, these pull-on training pants are going to offer you everything you are used to in a cloth diaper. #totallyawesome.

Side Snaps: There are very few side snap training pants. If you have a pooper, you want side snaps. For a while, my toddler refused to poop in the potty, and the only thing he would poop in is his pants. Flip training pants to the rescue! The inserts get a little messy, but nothing a cloth diaper parent doesn’t already know.

3 Times the Fun: If your kid doesn’t poop in the Flip Training Pant, but just makes an accident, swap out the insert. Honestly, I haven’t’ had the chance to do this yet because of a case of the #pantpooping.

It’s not all great…

Attaching the inserts is a pain.

Flip Training Pant is more like a diaper than underwear. I’m not sure it helps with the mental idea of moving AWAY from cloth diapers and into underwear. It helps me, mom, move into training pants.

The rise fold doesn’t go up like I think it should.

Should you?

If you are looking for a pull-up cloth diaper, then you need the Flip Training Pants.

If you are looking for a waterproof pull on for a long car ride, then the Flip Training Pant might be for you.

If you are looking for a pull on training pants for a pooper, then the Flip Training Pant is for you.

If you are on the potty training fast track, then skip the Flip Potty Training Kit.

Honestly, I love it, But this training pant isn’t for everyone.

Where can you find it? Check out these affiliate retailers below.CozyBums Diapers (Canada)

All in one cloth diapers are easy. But I think, Hybrid style cloth diapers are easier, and that’s why my stash is a collection of hybrids and different absorbency, and my AIO cloth diapers live in the dresser. This is why I’m beyond excited to share with you the full scoop on the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid Diaper.

Disclosure: At the time of this posting I am a Brand Ambassador for Omaïki. I was not asked to write this review, but I did receive this product in exchange for sharing about this diaper on my social media platforms. This post, as always, contains my true and honest opinion which is never influenced by external influences. As with any post on my blog, sometimes I share affiliate links. This means if you shop thru that link, you support this work-at-home mom. It’s a small comission at certain retailers, and the FTC wants me to tell you that. #fairenough

Omaïki is an AMAZING cloth diaper brand based out of Quebec, Canada. Most recently, they did something UNBELIEVABLY, and that was to bring a budget-friendly Canadian made diaper to the cloth diaper marketplace. It’s not often you can use cloth diaper a baby from birth to toddlerhood for under $400 CANADIAN, let alone with a product manufactured in Canada with Canadian fabrics.

Let’s talk the nitty-gritty of the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid cloth diaper.

Cabriö Hybrid DESIGN

What is a hybrid cloth diaper? A hybrid cloth diaper is a diaper you can customise to meet your needs. Typically you can reuse the diaper shell until soiled, swapping out the inserts until the shell is soiled and needs to be washed. Omaïki pairs the Cabriöwith the EVÖ insert, but any absorbent material of your choosing can be used inside the shell.

Cabriö design reminds me of the GroVia Hybrid meets Lalabye Baby. Omaiki keeps with their product line as the Cabriö is the same shape as their AIO cloth diaper.

The cloth diaper is a one-size shape suitable to sizes 8-40lbs. On the exterior, it features an outer shell of PUL with a double waist snap. Crossover snaps allow the diaper to be a cinch on the waist for the tiniest of the tiny, or for the perfect roll for soiled diapers. Cabriö is adjusted with four sets of rise2 settings in a 2×4 configuration.

Flip the diaper, and the inside features a 100% polyester lining. At the front, a PUL tummy panel helps keep inserts in, and clothes dry, while the rest of the diaper remains simple and straightforward. Double snaps at the back are available for snapping in other absorbent materials.

EVO insert is a one-size long snake-like insert intended to be folded to the perfect length for your baby. With one side bamboo and one side stay-dry (AWJ), the EVO insert offers users the option to switch between preferences

What I Love about the Cabriö Hybrid

Let’s start off with the good before we dive into areas of improvement with the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid. I’ve owned this for over a month now, and I’ll be honest, I use it all the time. It’s a favourite for my toddler because there is just SO MUCH ROOM for him. I’m not as big of a fan of the Cabriö Hybrid on my baby because I feel I need a solid wing lift to get a good fit, but it’s easy to use, and its hard to get a bad fit. The Cabriö Hybrid isn’t one of those diapers that require a lot of fiddle farting for the perfect fit, and that’s AWESOME.

Generous Sizing: Because I have a fair sized toddler, and a chunky monkey, I love the generous cut and sizing of the Omaiki Cabriö Hybrid cloth diaper. This diaper has room to grow!

Omaiki promises me it will fit the tiny babies, but the generous sizing of the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid has me sceptical. Little Miss is 17lbs and still on the smallest rise setting. I look at her in this diaper and wonder “how could it possibly fit a smaller baby.”

Double Waist Snap: Double waist snaps are my favourite feature on a cloth diaper. I like how the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid offers a higher waist and gives me a sense of sturdiness with my cloth diaper covers.

PUL Belly Panel: Added protection against wet diaper shirts is a must-have feature for me when considering cloth diaper covers and hybrids. I love being able to tuck my EVO insert into the panel of the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid and knowing it’s not going to get lost, and my children pants will stay dry. Honestly, I never tuck my absorbency into it, but I wouldn’t have this diaper any other way. I believe tummy panels help keep pants.

EVO Insert: The EVO insert took some time to get used to. It’s an odd shape, but after a few cloth diaper changes, and a couple of weeks of use, I have the hang of it, and I love it. The EVO insert is super absorbent, multifunctional and offers an amazing value for any cloth diaper family. It’s a little too bulky, and I’m a fan of prefold and flat diapers.

I love how I can use ONE CLOTH DIAPER all day and just change out the inserts when soiled (unless a poop happens!).

Price Point: At a mere $19 CDN for solids, and $25 CDN for three inserts, you can cloth diaper a baby for under $400 CDN (assuming eight sets, 24 diaper changes) using the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid.That’s a steal of a deal. Other reputable brands average around $500 CDN (and those brands are made in the USA or overseas). #startthecar .

Room for Improvement

No diaper is perfect, and while I love using the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid cloth diaper, and I am ordering more of my favourite NEW prints this week, there are a few things I think would make the Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid just a little better.

Polyester Inside: I know for some families this is going to be major thumbs down, but let’s get real when was the last time you ever wiped out your wipeable covers? Never? Yeah, sounds about right. While I would prefera wipeable cover, this is not a deal breaker for me, but something to consider if you like to wipe. Personally, I toss in the pail for wash day instead of reusing. It’s never quite the same.

Double Rise Snap: The Omaïki Cabriö Hybrid cloth diaper is trim in the crotch, but the double rise snap still creates an unsightly diaper bulge during the best of times. This is my constant critique with almost any double rise snap cloth diapers, and I much prefer a triple rise snap for a cleaner, crisper diapering experience. I also feel the same about the Nuggles Diapers.

Snap-In Inserts: I fully expect snap-in inserts with a hybrid system. Because the inserts don’t snap in, I think this more of a cover system… #personalopinion. I want to be able to use this diaper like I use my diaper covers, and I want to use it as an AIO cloth diaper system. I want to snap in an insert and leave it for non-cloth diapering parents for easy use. I wish my EVO insert snapped in, or there was a snap in insert.

My Recommendation?

If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly CANADIAN cloth diaper system, look no further. The Omaiki Cabriö Hybrid is an AMAZING option. Made in Canada, this cloth diaper system is suitable for all babies and offers an absorbent, multifunctional diapering system. With a variety of prints and solids to choose from, it’s hard to find something else just as remarkable as this cloth diaper system. Pick one up to try today, and then convert your entire stash. You won’t regret it.

Word on the Street: I bought more of these.#thatsaysitall

Canadian Retailers Stocking Cabrio

Let’s keep it Canadian this September with another amazing Canadian designed and manufactured cloth training pant, but this time lets look at some small shop options like the Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer. Bella Luna is a Canadian cloth diaper company based out of Ontario. These handmade cloth diapers are a fan favourite amongst Canadians.

I received product and/or compensation for this post. Thoughts and opinions remain my own.

I’ll admit, I’ve only owned one Bella Luna cloth diaper, and I didn’t really love it because my 20 pound baby had chunky thighs. I really should try them again because if you wander over to their website you’ll find a full assortment of delightful prints and ruffles for the cloth diaper bum in your family.

However, we are moving away from cloth diapering and into the big bad world of potty training. This weeks potty training update is trying desperately to transition from naked to underwear and pants. We have naked down pat. No accidents in days, weeks. However, put on a pair of under or pants and game over. This is why cloth training pants are helpful as they keep some of the mess at bay but still offer an underwear like sensation. *sigh*

Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer Design

A Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer is custom sewn with an approximate 4 week turn around (according to their website). Check out their website for a wide selection of prints. Choose from your favourite solids or patterns and get a perfectly customizable training pant for your little.

The outside of the Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer is PUL with an inside of athletic wicking jersey (AWJ). On top of the AWJ is 3 layers of bamboo fleece for daytime absorbency.

Aside from that, theres not’ much else to talk about. It’s available in three sizes (small, medium and large). I ordered a Large as my toddler was on the cusp of the Medium and prefer a larger training pant for easier pull on and off.

What I Love about Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer

Design: I love how the Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer absorbency is sewn ON TOP of the PUL & AWJ. This provides a seamless barrier from the wet and the pants. Additionally, there is a decent gap from the sewn in soaker and the edge of the pant. In our experience, this meant less wicking and drier pants.

Seriously, we went to Costco and home. He peed his pants, but his pants and carseat were dry. The absorbency on top of the waterproof barrier, plus the pants design keeps everything dry.

Sizing: The sizing on the Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer is very generous and spot on. I suspected the Large would be a tad big for him and I’m okay with that. The legs are definitely where we have the biggest gaps. And while this might seem like a problem, we haven’t had any issues with leaks, or poop squishes. I want him to be comfortable.

Absorbency: AMAZING.

Ease of Use: Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer are easy to pull on and off. With an underwear look and feel tehse provide little people with the needed skills to transition solely into underwear.

Construction & Quality: Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer is a simple training pants are well crafted and represent a quality product.

Natural Fibres: Natural fibres provide that feel-wet experience without any synthetic gimmicks with a pair of Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer .

What I don’t Love

Because potty training can just happen sometimes, I don’t love that Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer take some turn around to come to fruition. Part of that is the nature of the WAHM. When you purchase from a small shop like Bella Luna, you are purchasing from someone who needs to sit down and make the product for you. It’s not just mass produced and stored on shelves collecting dust, but hand made just for you. Isn’t that awesome?

The Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer also a little on the pircey side of life. It’s not the cheapest, but it is cheaper than another AIO cloth diaper.

Buy it to Keep Pants Dry

If you are frustrated with wet pants and need something for out and about then the Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer is for you! Custom made in Canada, the Bella Luna Pull Up is a great choice for potty training little ones. I love the easy fit, but more importantly the dry legs.

After several weeks of use, because my persistent toddler is stubborn, I’m thoroughly satisifed with the Bella Luna Pull Up Trainer and would order more. To order yours visit Bella Luna Inspirations today.

Did you know Bummis released a new and improved version of their AIO cloth diaper? No? At the end of the November, Bummis released the Pure making a series of significant changes to their already pretty awesome all in one cloth diaper. Check out my review of the previous version here. Disclosure: Kerri from Cozybums dropped one of […]